William Malet (Magna Carta baron) facts for kids
William Malet (born before 1175 – died 1215) was an important person in English history. He was a feudal baron from Curry Mallet in Somerset. William Malet is best known for being one of the people who helped make sure the Magna Carta was signed.
In 1190, William Malet went with King Richard the Lionheart on the Third Crusade. While on this journey in 1191, he was part of the Siege of Acre. After he came back to England, he worked as the Sheriff for Somerset and Dorset in 1209.
William Malet was one of the barons who disagreed with King John. These barons owed a lot of money to the King. By 1214, it is thought that William Malet owed King John about £1333. In that same year, he agreed to serve the King with 10 knights and 20 other soldiers. In return, his debts would be cancelled. However, this agreement did not last. By 1215, William Malet joined the rebellion against King John.
It seems William Malet died only a few months after King John signed the Magna Carta.
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What is the Magna Carta?
The Magna Carta is a very famous document from English history. It was signed in 1215 by King John. This document was a peace treaty between King John and a group of rebel barons. It promised to protect certain rights for the people and limit the power of the king. It is seen as an important step towards modern democracy and human rights.
William Malet's Land and Home
William Malet owned several important areas of land. His main home and castle were in Curry Mallet, which was the center of his feudal barony. He also owned land in Shepton Mallet, both in Somerset.
William Malet's Family Life
William Malet was married twice. He did not have any sons, but he had three daughters. These daughters shared his lands after he died.
Children from his First Marriage
William Malet had one daughter with his first wife, whose name is not known:
- Mabel Malet: She first married Nicholas Avenel. Later, before November 1223, she married Hugh de Vivonia (who also went by de Forz). He was from Chewton in Somerset.
Children from his Second Marriage
William Malet had two daughters with his second wife, Alice Basset. Alice Basset was the daughter of Thomas Basset, who was the Sheriff of Oxfordshire and Berkshire.
- Bertha Malet: She died before 1221 and was never married.
- Hawise Malet: She first married Hugh I Poyntz before March 23, 1217. He died in 1220. Later, she married Robert de Mucegros, who was from Brewham in Somerset.
